Guest Author: John Feldmann is a Sourcing Analyst for Insperity Recruiting Services, specializing in employment branding and advertising.Website: http://twitter.com/john_feldmann

Every year, thousands of new college grads emerge from academia, filled with optimism, ready to enter the next stage of their lives. But the first step is often the hardest – finding a job, or better yet, a career. The task of finding a job is a full-time job in itself, and how are you supposed to know the dos and don’ts of job hunting if you’ve never actually done it? Alright, so you worked as a lifeguard last summer, and sold jeans at The Gap during high school. But now, you’re looking for a career – a job that will support you, pay off your student loans, act as the first step to reaching your professional goals, and ideally, draw upon the knowledge and education you acquired in school.

Several years ago, long before I began working for my present employer, I went through a period of unemployment. I spent every day searching the internet job boards for positions for which I might be a good fit, and sending personalized cover letters and resumes tailored to each position. But as months went by, I got little or no response, and as my frustration grew, my standards continued to lower with regard to required qualifications and salary.(more…)

1. Be able to explain why you have decided that now is the time for you to return to the work force – why now? Have a convincing statement about your goals or intentions of staying in the work force after being away for a period of time – this is best done by scripting and practicing your answer so that you feel confident saying it in the interview.

2. Make sure that you are up-to-date on changes that have occurred in your field in your absence. This may entail taking a brush up class or course. It is important that you be able to show that you can “hit the ground running,” particularly with so many candidates to choose from in this economy.(more…)

The unfortunate reality of the current job market is that it is exceedingly difficult to find full time employment, especially employment that is related to your field of interest. However, if you’re willing to remain flexible, you’ll likely find yourself far more employable when the job market finally makes a turn for the better. Here are some suggestions for ways to stay flexible.(more…)

Share:

If you are planning to re-enter the job market after any significant absence, the task may feel rather daunting. The following are some suggestions to help make your return to the job market a bit smoother. Keep your skills current:If you plan on returning to the same field from which you had taken your leave, do your best to keep […]

Share:

About

Your personal college career center. We help college students, recent grads and young professionals make the transition from college to work. Key audience: college students, recent graduates, young professionals, seekers with no experience, international students, immigrants.